The Calile – Hotel Review

Located in the heart of Fortitude Valley’s James Street precinct, The Calile Hotel is home to some of the city’s most happening eateries. Read on for the full review.

The Lobby Bar on the ground floor of the hotel is an excellent spot for breakfast and people-watching, while the poolside Hellenika offers some of the best Greek food in the city. But it’s the hotel’s design that really steals the show. Local architecture firm Richards & Spence is behind the property’s glorious arches, airy lobby and the sprawling pool that make it the go-to for Brisbane’s cool set.

Where is The Calile?

Just east of the city is Fortitude Valley, one of Brisbane's most happening neighbourhoods. From here, the aiport is about a 15-minute drive.

What’s near The Calile?

The posh boutiques and cafes of James Street are all on the hotel's doorstep, while the CBD is a 10-minute cab ride away.

Room types

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Local firm Richards and Spence has designed a hotel that tends to take you to a different place (Palm Springs) and a different time (mid 20th century), yet seems to fit perfectly in the heart of contemporary Brisbane. Rooms with arched hallways, travertine floors, cork-panelled bedheads and liberal strokes of blush create an otherworldly lair, while ensuites with pink-marble benchtops and brass taps add to the appeal. The only reminder you’re still in Brisbane is the party unfolding at the poolside Hellenika below. Ask for a higher-level room as far from the restaurant as possible if you’re a light sleeper.

Restaurant and bars

Spanakopita and Greek salad are not the sort of everyday staples you order when dining out at a renowned Greek eatery. But at Hellenika you must. The Gold Coast icon’s Brisbane outpost does incredible things with complex dishes like eggplant moussaka and wagyu beef pastitso, but it’s the deft touch that it gives to simple salads and filos that truly speak of its genius.

Travel for work

The hotel offers a spate of small and large spaces for indoor meetings or corporate events outdoors by the pool.

Spa, gym and pool

There’s a bright, airy, spacious gym, but it’s the on-site Kailo Wellness Medispa where you want to spend some quality time. Enjoy a facial developed specifically for your skin, or sign up for a calming, relaxing body ritual. The sugar exfoliation featuring a rub made of shiraz grapes, strawberry, vanilla, blackcurrent and grapefruit is the pick of the bunch.

What you need to know

It is not the longest in Australia, nor the swankiest, but the Calile’s swimming pool is definitely one of the most photogenic, particularly when seen from the balcony of your guestroom. Must be those pistachio-and-white parasols.

Best for: Couples, the party set and design-savvy travellers
Design: Mid-century now
Ambience: Effervescent
Number of rooms: 175 rooms; 9 suites
From: $259 per night
Wi-fi: Free and fast
Parking: Self-parking is $25 per night; valet parking is $45 per night
Address: 48 James Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
Telephone: +61 7 3607 5888